Maglev Train

A presentation by Hessel and Sam

Introduction

A Maglev train is a train that operates using magnetic levitation (thus called “Maglev”). Many countries already have a few maglev trains, like the United State, the United Kingdom, Germany and Japan. Most countries that have maglev trains are MEDC’s. There are, though, a few countries that are not MEDC’s, but do have maglev trains, like China, India and Malaysia.

This presentation will be about the following topics:• How Maglev trains work• How Maglev trains affect the environment• How Maglev trains affect the economy

How The Maglev Train Works

There are two main types of mechanisms that are used for maglev trains. One uses electromagnets to suspend and propel the train forward, the other mechanism uses permanent magnets, both on the rails and on the train. Both mechanisms are commonly used.

Electromagnetic Suspension (made in Germany):

Electrodynamic Suspension (made in Japan):

How The Maglev Train Works Mechanism

1

• Electromagnetic Suspension (EMS) is based on electromagnets.

• The train is suspended above a t-shaped track• Two magnets at the side to guide the train• Very vulnerable, because the correct distance has to be held

between the two magnets

A more detailed diagram of the EMS mechanism

How The Maglev Train Works Mechanism 2

• Electrodynamic Supsension (EDS) uses permanent magnets, in the train and in the rails

• Two types of magnets in train (JR-Maglev and Inductrack)• JR-Maglev uses the repelling forces to stay suspended• Much more stable than EMS

A more detailed mechanism of the EDS mechanism

Pros and Cons• They are faster than

normal trains.• They are more

profitable.• In theory, they are

usually quieter than normal trains.

• Tracks do not require much maintenance.

• They use less energy than normal trains.

• They are safer than planes

• They are controlled by computers.• They are more expensive.

• They are not compatible with normal rail tracks.

• There aren’t any lines that branch off from main lines.

• A strong magnetic field is required to levitate a Maglev train

How The Maglev Train Affects The Environment (Hessel)

There are multiple ways in which the maglev train affects the environment. Mainly, the positive difference between a normal train and a maglev train. The biggest difference between a normal train and a maglev train is, obviously, that the Maglev uses magnets, instead of either electricity or motors. This makes the Maglev train much better than normal trains.

Secondly, the tracks. Maglev train tracks need lots of magnets to make. These magnets need to be made in factories. During the process of making magnets, the factory lets our many very polluting fumes into the air. Normal trains do use steel, that is also manufactured in factories, but they don’t have to use as much, which means that the tracks of the Maglev is more polluting than the normal train.

In conclusion, there are both good sides and bad sides of the enviromental factor of the Magev train, but, all together, it is probably less polluting than the normal trains beceause of its very effective use of magnets.

Economic Effects

• A Maglev train line can cost 60 million dollars per kilometre.

• They are more profitable.• Connecting cities together.• Exporting/importing maglev trains.